Children can grow a lot over a few months. Those sneakers that fit them on the last day of school may be way too small on the first, and what were ankle-length pants in June may look more like pedal pushers by September. But what about their mouths? If your child will be playing sports this fall, there’s a good chance they’re going to need an athletic mouthguard, and there’s a very strong possibility that they may have outgrown their device from last season. Whether it’s time to update their gear for a new season, or they’re just starting their extracurricular sports career, here’s why it’s so important to wear a mouthguard, and to replace it every six months.
What is a Sports Mouthguard?
A sports mouthguard is an orthotic device that fits in the mouth to protect the teeth and gums during physical activity. There are many varieties available, including ‘boil-and-bite’ varieties that can be found at most sports stores and online, and professional mouthguards that are available exclusively through your dentist.
Why Does My Child Need a Sports Mouthguard?
Sports mouthguards protect your child’s teeth and gums during sports. They are extremely effective at minimizing the impact of injuries to the mouth and can often prevent things like knocked out or loosened teeth or lacerations to the gums.
Are Professionally Made Sports Mouthguards Better than Storebought?
When it comes to deciding whether to get a professional or storebought mouthguard, there are a few key differences to consider.
- Fit: Professional mouth guards are crafted from impressions of your child’s teeth taken at their dentist’s office. These allow for a more precise fit. Conversely, while boil and bite varieties are also made directly from your child’s teeth impressions, they often leave behind bulky, excess material that make them uncomfortable to wear.
- Materials: Professional sports mouthguards are typically made of more durable materials such as EVA or thermoplastic, which are better for long term use. Storebought varieties are made from inferior materials that wear out faster and don’t offer as much protection in the first place.
- Function: A professional sports mouthguard can be customized to accommodate certain oral health conditions, such as if your child suffers from TMD disorder, while storebought cannot, and could potentially make these types of problems worse.
Why Do I Need to Replace My Child’s Sports Mouthguard So Often?
Though professional sports mouthguards were designed to last much longer than storebought, it is important to replace them both as needed. Most dentists recommend upgrading every six months and are happy to do a fit check at your child’s regular biannual exam and cleaning appointments. The reasoning for this is twofold: first, even the most durable guard will wear down with time, and second, as your child grows, it’s important that their mouthguard fits not just properly, but comfortably, as their mouth changes.
Remember, back to school means back to sports! Whether your child is a first-time rookie or a seasoned pro, speak to your dentist today about customizing an athletic mouthguard to protect their smile while they play!
About Our Practice
At Tic Tac Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, our team of board-certified pediatric dentists is honored to be trusted with the care of your child’s smile. Whether we’re providing a preventive exam and cleaning, a tooth-colored filling, or fitting them for a new sports mouthguard for the upcoming season, we’re happy to help protect their growing teeth and gums. This fall, get a jump start on their sports itinerary and schedule an appointment for a new athletic mouthguard today. You can book through our website, or call us directly at 630-995-3393.